Looking 70 in Their Teens: The heartbreaking story of two sisters living with a rare disease and social stigma
Babushahi Bureau
Raisen (Madhya Pradesh), June 5, 2026: A deeply moving story from Saler village in Madhya Pradesh's Raisen has drawn attention to the devastating impact of a rare genetic disorder that has dramatically altered the lives of two teenage sisters.
Nineteen-year-old Rajkumari and her 17-year-old half-sister Roshni are battling Progeria, an extremely rare genetic condition that causes accelerated ageing.
Although still in their teens, both sisters display physical characteristics typically associated with old age. Their skin has sagged prematurely, their limbs have become frail, and their overall health has deteriorated significantly.
Progeria affects an estimated one in eight million people worldwide and remains one of the rarest genetic disorders. According to reports, only a handful of cases have been documented in India.
The tragedy has already struck the family once before, as their younger brother Rajkumar reportedly died from the same condition at the age of seven. Two other siblings, however, remain unaffected.
Roshni says she once dreamed of attending school and enjoying a normal childhood, but relentless teasing from classmates, who mocked her appearance, forced her to leave school after Class 5. She avoids looking at herself in the mirror and struggles with the emotional burden of the disease.
Rajkumari's condition is even more severe, with mobility challenges requiring support for walking and difficulties in communication. The family says the government pension she receives barely covers basic medical expenses.
The family's suffering has been compounded by social stigma and exclusion. Their mother, Ganesh Bai, alleges that villagers often refer to her daughters with derogatory names and avoid eating or drinking in their home due to misconceptions that the disease is contagious. She also recalls facing criticism from relatives and family members who blamed her for giving birth to children affected by the condition.
Medical experts explain that Progeria is caused by a genetic mutation that leads to the production of a harmful protein known as progerin. The protein damages cells and accelerates the ageing process, resulting in wrinkles, weakened skin, growth problems, and a range of serious health complications at a very young age.
According to genetic specialists, there is currently no cure for Progeria. Patients are at increased risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and life expectancy remains limited. The condition continues to pose significant medical and emotional challenges for affected families, highlighting the need for greater awareness, social support, and access to specialized healthcare.